Packard Forum Index » V-8 (1955-56)

I need to change the water pump. Does the radiator need to be removed?

No need to remove the radiator and you don't even have to remove the upper radiator hose. Just take off the fan which is the main struggle, then remove the pump bolts but be sure to replace the copper crush-washers on the bolts when putting on the new one.

Quote:

No but it's a tight/annoying fit to not hit the fins. Follow Don's instructions.

By the way the instructions are also in the service manual.

packardinfo.com/xoops/html/downloads/ser ... ual5556/Sect14_Radiator_Cooling.pdf

I would also strongly suggest finding a fairly large piece of thin chipboard or even the thicker box cardboard and taping or fastening it in some way so it covers most of the radiator core in the area where you will be working. This will help prevent any damage to the fins should something slip when removing the bolts and could also save your knuckles from a painful scrape.

This is also on my list for my '56, due to the water pump making an obscene amount of clatter. Thanks for the tips.

Do rebuilt pumps typically come with new crush washers, or do I need to pick some up? I'm going to check with Max Merritt to see if they have a rebuilt pump on hand. Don't want a lot of downtime.

BYOCW but they give you a gasket. Why they can't throw in 6 for $250, idk.

Anyway, harbor freight has them.